NFL Rumors: Michael Bennett expected to sign with Chicago Bears

Dec 2, 2013; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett (72) runs the ball in for a touchdown after recovering the fumble by New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (not pictured) during the 1st quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

It looks as though Michael Bennett’s days as a Seahawk are over.

Multiple reports came out on Sunday night saying that Bennett is expected to sign with the Chicago Bears  when free agency officially opens on Tuesday afternoon. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune had the story first.

Bennett was one of the Seahawks top priorities to re-sign this offseason. However, he demanded a big money contract and reportedly turned down an offer from Seattle in order to test out the free agent market.

The Seahawks released Red Bryant last week in the hopes of clearing enough cap space to keep up with Bennett’s demands, but now it looks like Seattle will miss out on both defensive ends. Bryant signed a four-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Bennett is expected to call the Windy City his new home.

Chris Clemons was also expected to be cut this offseason to clear cap room, but now it seems almost inevitable that the Seahawks keep him on the roster as a defensive end. They do not have a left defensive end currently on their depth chart.

If Bennett signs outside of Seattle, the Seahawks next focus will reportedly be Golden Tate, who has stated multiple times that he would be willing to take a small pay cut to stay in Seattle.